Depression

We all go through ups and downs in our mood. Sadness is a normal reaction to life’s
struggles, setbacks, and disappointments. Many people use the word “depression” to
explain these kinds of feelings, but clinical depression is much more than just sadness.
Depression is different from normal sadness in that it engulfs a person’s day-to-day
life, interfering with the ability to study, work, eat, sleep, and have fun. The feelings
of helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness are intense and unrelenting, with
little, if any, relief. Some depressed students experience agitation, anxiety, and
intense anger; some have recurrent thoughts of destruction and are preoccupied with
death; and some desire to escape the pain through suicide. A depressed student may
begin to show inconsistent class attendance or stop going out with friends or roommates.
Fortunately, depression responds to treatment, so connecting students to services
is important.

Many students will experience reactive or situational depression at some point in
their academic careers. It is a natural emotional and a physical response to the academic
demands and challenges as well as life’s ups and downs. Depression is considered more
severe when it interferes with the student’s ability to function in school, in social
environments, or at work. Without treatment, depression can last weeks, months, or
years.

When you observe a depressed student:

Do

When possible, see the student in private.

Mention that you have noticed that she/he appears to be feeling down and you would
like to help. Encourage the student to discuss how she/he is feeling.

Listen to the information the student is sharing.

Be supportive and express your concern about the situation.

Be direct and concise about an action plan.

Initiate the action plan, such as having the student call from your office for a counseling
appointment.

Ask if the student has any thought of suicide. For example, “Have you had thoughts
of harming yourself?” Don’t ignore remarks about suicide. If the student shares thoughts
of suicide